PROJECTS
Mount Holly
Vincentown
Pohatcong
Hackettstown

RESOURCES
Restoring Riparian
  Forest Buffers
Step by Step
  Restoration
Native Plants
Riparian Buffer Links

Native Plants
Why Use Native Plants?

Native plants have naturally evolved in a particular region in which they are found. Native plants have adapted to local physical conditions such as soil, geology, and climate. Therefore they require less maintenance, are resistant to most pests and diseases, and require little or no irrigation or fertilizers, once established. Planting native trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants is a great way of complimenting and restoring the natural environment. Native plants have a diversity of characteristics which provide intriguing shapes, colors, and sizes, while their flowers, fruits, and foliage attract beneficial wildlife including songbirds and butterflies.
Note: Invasive plants are non-native plants which disrupt the natural ecology and displace native plants. These plants should be discouraged and avoided.

Native Plants are Functional and Attractive

Native plants have many applications in riparian buffers, ecological restoration, and backyard wildlife habitats, as well as in residential and commercial landscaping. Whether a large-scale restoration or a backyard project; a golf course or corporate site; a land-use planning measure or a community undertaking, handling and observing native plants is educational and increases people's awareness of plants in the natural environment. Preserving existing native vegetation in the land-use planning process is an important goal. Native plants can help to positively off-set the impact of land development as well as infuse life and a piece of "Mother Nature" into urban settings.

Design and restore riparian forest buffers with native plants to 'help put nature back together again'. Remember, however, to use nursery-propagated plants for projects to prevent disturbing wild natural vegetation.

Red Chokeberry and Joe-Pye in Mount Holly Riparian Forest Buffer